Storage & Organization

The Best Climbing Passive Protection Hardware

1 min read WeKompare Editorial Team Products verified: September 7, 2026 10 products compared

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Passive protection hardware is crucial for safe climbing, offering a reliable way to protect yourself on the rock. Unlike active protection that moves, passive gear relies on the rock's features to hold firm. Selecting the right pieces ensures your security and confidence on challenging ascents.

No. 1
DMM Wallnuts - Assorted 3-8
DMM Wallnuts - Assorted 3-8
  • Designed for a wide range of trad placements
  • Curved taper allows solid seating in flared or uneven cracks
  • Color-coded for fast identification and efficient racking
  • Lightweight aluminum heads reduce bulk and maintain strength
  • Textured faces help grip slick or smooth rock
$69.99
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SaleNo. 2
DMM Wallnuts - Assorted 7-11
DMM Wallnuts - Assorted 7-11
  • Designed for a wide range of trad placements
  • Curved taper allows solid seating in flared or uneven cracks
  • Color-coded for fast identification and efficient racking
  • Lightweight aluminum heads reduce bulk and maintain strength
  • Textured faces help grip slick or smooth rock
−20% $65.59
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No. 3
DMM Wallnuts - Red 6
DMM Wallnuts - Red 6
  • Material: [head] anodized alloy, [wire] galvanized steel
  • Placement Range: [1] 6.7 / 14.3mm, [2] 8.1 / 15.8mm, [3] 9.4 / 16.5mm, [4] 11 / 17.6mm, [5] 13.2 / 19.4mm, [6] 15.6 / 22.6mm, [7] 18.9 / 25.8mm, [8] 22.3 / 29mm, [9] 25.2 / 32.1mm, [10] 28.8 / 32.6mm, [11] 33.1 / 37.4mm
  • Strength: [1] 7kN, [2] 9kN, [3] 11kN, [4 - 11] 12kN
  • Claimed Weight: [1] 0.53oz, [2] 0.92oz, [3] 0.99oz, [4] 1.06oz, [5] 1.13oz, [6] 1.38oz, [7] 1.41oz, [8] 1.59oz, [9] 1.76oz, [10] 1.98oz, [11] 2.4oz
  • Manufacturer Warranty: limited
$17.49
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No. 4
DMM Wired Torque Nut Set #1-4
DMM Wired Torque Nut Set #1-4
  • DMM
$93.99
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No. 5
DMM Micro Wallnuts - Grey 0.75
DMM Micro Wallnuts - Grey 0.75
  • Placement Range: 5.9 / 12.6mm
  • Strength: 6kN
  • Manufacturer Warranty: limited
  • Activity: climbing
$13.59
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No. 6
DMM Wallnuts - Green 2
DMM Wallnuts - Green 2
  • Material: [head] anodized alloy, [wire] galvanized steel
  • Placement Range: [1] 6.7 / 14.3mm, [2] 8.1 / 15.8mm, [3] 9.4 / 16.5mm, [4] 11 / 17.6mm, [5] 13.2 / 19.4mm, [6] 15.6 / 22.6mm, [7] 18.9 / 25.8mm, [8] 22.3 / 29mm, [9] 25.2 / 32.1mm, [10] 28.8 / 32.6mm, [11] 33.1 / 37.4mm
  • Strength: [1] 7kN, [2] 9kN, [3] 11kN, [4 - 11] 12kN
  • Claimed Weight: [1] 0.53oz, [2] 0.92oz, [3] 0.99oz, [4] 1.06oz, [5] 1.13oz, [6] 1.38oz, [7] 1.41oz, [8] 1.59oz, [9] 1.76oz, [10] 1.98oz, [11] 2.4oz
  • Manufacturer Warranty: limited
$16.99
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No. 7
DMM Alloy Offset, Size 11, Light Blue
DMM Alloy Offset, Size 11, Light Blue
  • Alloy Offset 11
  • Light Blue Color Style
  • Weight: 55 g
  • Gate Opening: N/A
  • Strength: 12kN
$21.49
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SaleNo. 8
DMM Alloy Offsets - Red 9
DMM Alloy Offsets - Red 9
  • Offset nuts for rounding out your rack
  • Asymmetrical taper design for use in offset cracks
  • Grooved faces give a solid hold on all rock types
  • Color-coded sizes for easy identification
  • Holes in larger sizes reduce weight
−20% $17.19
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No. 9
DMM Halfnuts Set - 8-11
DMM Halfnuts Set - 8-11
  • Half a Wallnut fits in places where most stoppers cannot
  • Single-wire innovation is lighter and thinner than any stopper
  • Tapered face and sides place in cracks better
  • Harder alloy heads prevent shearing
  • Color-coordinated for finding the right size faster
$59.23
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No. 10
DMM Halfnuts - Blue #5
DMM Halfnuts - Blue #5
  • Half a Wallnut fits in places where most stoppers cannot
  • Single-wire innovation is lighter and thinner than any stopper
  • Tapered face and sides place in cracks better
  • Harder alloy heads prevent shearing
  • Color-coordinated for finding the right size faster
$23.37
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Last update on 2026-09-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Climbing Passive Protection Hardware

Understanding Passive Protection Types

  • Passive protection refers to gear that doesn't require any mechanical action to function. Its holding power comes from its shape and how it's placed within a rock feature.
  • Common types include nuts (also known as stoppers or chocks) and hexes. Nuts are typically wedge-shaped metal pieces with a wire loop. Hexes are hexagonal-shaped pieces that can be placed in either a nut or hex orientation.
  • Tricams are another popular passive device, featuring a striking camming action that can also be placed passively. They are versatile and can work in parallel cracks or pockets.

Key Considerations When Buying

  • Material: Most passive protection is made from aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lighter and generally less expensive, while steel offers greater strength and durability, making it a good choice for heavier-duty use.
  • Size Range: Passive protection comes in a wide variety of sizes, from tiny micro-nuts for thin cracks to large hexes for wider fissures. Consider the types of rock and crack sizes you'll most often encounter to build a well-rounded rack.
  • Shape and Taper: The shape of the protection is critical for its holding power. Wedge-shaped nuts are excellent in parallel-sided cracks, while tapered pieces work well in flaring or irregular cracks.
  • Wire Strength: Ensure the wire attachment is robust and rated for climbing loads. Look for integrated wire loops that are securely crimped.

Building Your Rack

  • Start with a basic set of nuts in common sizes. These are often sold in sets for convenience and cost-effectiveness.
  • Consider adding a few hexes, particularly if you climb on rock with irregular crack features.
  • If your climbing style involves varied crack sizes and types, a few tricams can offer valuable versatility.
  • Always inspect your gear for wear and tear before each use. Damaged or worn protection should be retired.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between passive and active climbing protection?
Passive protection relies on its shape and placement within a rock feature to stay in place and catch a fall. Active protection, like cams, uses mechanical action to expand and jam into cracks, requiring manipulation by the climber.
Are nuts or hexes better for beginners?
Both nuts and hexes are valuable additions to a climber's rack. Nuts are generally simpler to place and understand for beginners, while hexes can be more versatile in certain crack types once their use is mastered.
How do I know what size passive protection I need?
The size needed depends entirely on the width and shape of the crack you are trying to protect. It's best to carry a range of sizes and practice placing them in various crack features to develop a feel for what fits securely.
How should I clean and maintain my passive protection?
Clean your gear with water and a brush to remove dirt and debris. Inspect the metal for any signs of damage, such as deformities or excessive wear. Check the wire for fraying or corrosion; if any damage is found, the piece should be retired.
Can I use passive protection in any type of rock crack?
Passive protection works best in constrictions or features where its shape can be wedged or jammed securely. While versatile, some crack types (like perfectly parallel or severely flaring cracks) may be less suitable for certain passive pieces.